Epilation apparatus and method of use

ABSTRACT

An epilation apparatus includes a support and a glass pad adhered to the support. The glass pad has an exposed roughened surface that, when placed against human skin and manually manipulated in a rotational motion, is adapted to remove hair from the human skin. A method of using the epilation apparatus involves configuring the support such that the roughened surface of the glass pad is placed against human skin that has hair and manually manipulating the support in a rotational motion such the glass pad removes the hair from the human skin.

APPENDIX AND INCORPORATION THEREOF BY REFERENCE

The present application is a U.S. nonprovisional patent application of,and claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) to, U.S. provisional patentapplication Ser. No. 61/845,855, filed Jul. 12, 2013 and entitled “NINAEPILATION PAD”, which is expressly incorporated by reference herein inits entirety. The disclosure of the '855 patent application is containedin Appendix A, attached hereto, which is likewise incorporated byreference herein in its entirety.

COPYRIGHT STATEMENT

All of the material in this patent document is subject to copyrightprotection under the copyright laws of the United States and othercountries. The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimilereproduction by anyone of the patent document or the patent disclosure,as it appears in official governmental records but, otherwise, all othercopyright rights whatsoever are reserved.

BACKGROUND OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

1. Field of the Present Invention

The present invention relates generally to hair removal from human skin,and, in particular, to a simple, durable device for hair removal fromhuman skin that is capable of repeated use.

2. Background

Epilation, or the removal of hair from a person's body, is a well-knownand valued practice across many different cultures. In some cultures,epilation of body hair is encouraged and is believed to promote goodhygiene. In other cultures, epilation of body hair is a societal normand is often performed to provide a person with an aestheticallypleasing appearance.

An adult human is capable of growing body hair in a number of locationson his or her body, including arms, legs and the abdomen. Because bodyhair will continue to grow, even after removal, there is an ongoing needfor a simple, durable device capable of removing undesirable body hairfrom a person's body. One of the more common hair removal devices is arazor or shaver that relies on one or more blades for trimming body hairat its base. However, razors and shavers can often result in nicks orother injuries to a person's skin. Furthermore, the blades typicallyrequire regular maintenance or replacement in order to maintain theeffectiveness of the razor or shaver. Another existing device utilizes aflexible rubber pad that includes fine crystalline structures that buffaway hair from the skin. However, such devices typically wear down afterrepeated use and are inefficient in removing body hair. Still othermeans of removing unwanted body hair include laser hair removal andother medical treatments. However, such treatments can be very expensiveto undertake, particularly if repeated treatment sessions are required.

Thus, a need exists for a simple, durable epilation device that is botheffective in removing body hair and is capable of withstanding repeateduse without wearing down. This, and other needs, is addressed by one ormore aspects of the present invention.

SUMMARY OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

The present invention comprises an epilation apparatus. Broadly defined,the present invention according to one aspect includes an epilationapparatus including a support and a glass pad adhered to the support.The glass pad has an exposed roughened surface that, when placed againsthuman skin and manually manipulated in a rotational motion, is adaptedto remove hair from the human skin.

In a feature of this aspect, the etched surface may include a roughnessparameter value (R_(a)) within the range of approximately 6 micrometersand approximately 16 micrometers. In another feature of this aspect, theetched surface may include a roughness parameter value (R_(q)) withinthe range of approximately 6 micrometers and approximately 18micrometers. In still another feature of this aspect, the etched surfacemay include a roughness parameter value (R_(z)) within the range ofapproximately 40 micrometers and approximately 76 micrometers.

In a feature of this aspect, the glass pad may have an exposed etchedsurface.

In a feature of this aspect, the etched surface may include a roughnessparameter value (R_(a)) within the range of approximately 6 micrometersand approximately 16 micrometers, and the etched surface may include aroughness parameter value (R_(q)) within the range of approximately 6micrometers and approximately 18 micrometers.

In a feature of this aspect, the etched surface may include a roughnessparameter value (R_(q)) within the range of approximately 6 micrometersand approximately 18 micrometers, and the etched surface may include aroughness parameter value (R_(z)) within the range of approximately 40micrometers and approximately 76 micrometers.

In a feature of this aspect, the etched surface may include a roughnessparameter value (R_(a)) within the range of approximately 6 micrometersand approximately 16 micrometers, and the etched surface may include aroughness parameter value (R_(z)) within the range of approximately 40micrometers and approximately 76 micrometers.

In a feature of this aspect, the etched surface may include a roughnessparameter value (R_(a)) within the range of approximately 6 micrometersand approximately 16 micrometers, the etched surface may include aroughness parameter value (R_(q)) within the range of approximately 6micrometers and approximately 18 micrometers, and the etched surface mayinclude a roughness parameter value (R_(z)) within the range ofapproximately 40 micrometers and approximately 76 micrometers.

In another feature of this aspect, the glass pad may be etched using achemical etching process.

In other features of this aspect, the glass pad may include a roundedshape; and/or the glass pad may include a beveled edge.

In another feature of this aspect, the glass pad may have a thickness ofabout 0.35 cm. In still another feature of this aspect, the glass padmay have a thickness of about 2.9 mm.

In another feature of this aspect, the glass pad may be comprised of atempered glass.

In another feature of this aspect, the support may include a handle. Instill another feature of this aspect, the support may include a fingergrip.

In still other features of this aspect, the glass pad may be adhered tothe support with a polymer-based epoxy; and/or the support may include atray for accommodating the glass pad.

The present invention comprises a method of using an epilationapparatus. Broadly defined, the present invention according to anotheraspect includes a method of using an epilation apparatus that includes:providing a support having a glass pad adhered thereto, the glass padhaving an exposed roughened surface; configuring the support such thatthe roughened surface of the glass pad is placed against human skin thathas hair; and manually manipulating the support in a rotational motionsuch the glass pad removes the hair from the human skin.

In a feature of this aspect, manually manipulating the support in arotational motion may include rotational motion in each of a clockwisedirection and a counterclockwise direction.

In a feature of this aspect, the glass pad may have an exposed etchedsurface.

In a feature of this aspect, the etched surface may include a roughnessparameter value (R_(a)) within the range of approximately 6 micrometersand approximately 16 micrometers. In another feature of this aspect, theetched surface may include a roughness parameter value (R_(q)) withinthe range of approximately 6 micrometers and approximately 18micrometers. In still another feature of this aspect, the etched surfacemay include a roughness parameter value (R_(z)) within the range ofapproximately 40 micrometers and approximately 76 micrometers.

In a feature of this aspect, the etched surface may include a roughnessparameter value (R_(a)) within the range of approximately 6 micrometersand approximately 16 micrometers, and the etched surface may include aroughness parameter value (R_(q)) within the range of approximately 6micrometers and approximately 18 micrometers.

In a feature of this aspect, the etched surface may include a roughnessparameter value (R_(q)) within the range of approximately 6 micrometersand approximately 18 micrometers, and the etched surface may include aroughness parameter value (R_(z)) within the range of approximately 40micrometers and approximately 76 micrometers.

In a feature of this aspect, the etched surface may include a roughnessparameter value (R_(a)) within the range of approximately 6 micrometersand approximately 16 micrometers, and the etched surface may include aroughness parameter value (R_(z)) within the range of approximately 40micrometers and approximately 76 micrometers.

In a feature of this aspect, the etched surface may include a roughnessparameter value (R_(a)) within the range of approximately 6 micrometersand approximately 16 micrometers, the etched surface may include aroughness parameter value (R_(q)) within the range of approximately 6micrometers and approximately 18 micrometers, and the etched surface mayinclude a roughness parameter value (R_(z)) within the range ofapproximately 40 micrometers and approximately 76 micrometers.

In another feature of this aspect, the glass pad may be etched using achemical etching process.

In other features of this aspect, the glass pad may include a roundedshape; and/or the glass pad may include a beveled edge.

In another feature of this aspect, the glass pad may have a thickness ofabout 0.35 cm. In still another feature of this aspect, the glass padmay have a thickness of about 2.9 mm.

In another feature of this aspect, the glass pad may be comprised of atempered glass.

In another feature of this aspect, the support may include a handle. Instill another feature of this aspect, the support may include a fingergrip.

In still other features of this aspect, the glass pad may be adhered tothe support with a polymer-based epoxy; and/or the support may include atray for accommodating the glass pad.

Further areas of applicability of the present invention will becomeapparent from the detailed description provided hereinafter. It shouldbe understood that the detailed description and specific examples, whileindicating the preferred embodiment of the invention, are intended forpurposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope ofthe invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Further features, embodiments, and advantages of the present inventionwill become apparent from the following detailed description withreference to the drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an epilation apparatus in accordancewith one or more embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a front view of the epilation apparatus of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a side view of the epilation apparatus of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a rear view of the epilation apparatus of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is a bottom view of the epilation apparatus of FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the epilation apparatus of FIG. 1,illustrating placement of the glass pad in a tray;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of another epilation apparatus inaccordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 8 is a side view of the epilation apparatus of FIG. 7, illustratinga method of use.

FIGS. 9A-9D are graphs illustrating the roughness testing results of afirst glass pad sample;

FIGS. 10A-10D are graphs illustrating the roughness testing results of asecond glass pad sample; and

FIGS. 11A-11D are graphs illustrating the roughness testing results of athird glass pad sample.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

As a preliminary matter, it will readily be understood by one havingordinary skill in the relevant art (“Ordinary Artisan”) that the presentinvention has broad utility and application. Furthermore, any embodimentdiscussed and identified as being “preferred” is considered to be partof a best mode contemplated for carrying out the present invention.Other embodiments also may be discussed for additional illustrativepurposes in providing a full and enabling disclosure of the presentinvention. As should be understood, any embodiment may incorporate onlyone or a plurality of the above-disclosed aspects of the invention andmay further incorporate only one or a plurality of the above-disclosedfeatures. Moreover, many embodiments, such as adaptations, variations,modifications, and equivalent arrangements, will be implicitly disclosedby the embodiments described herein and fall within the scope of thepresent invention.

Accordingly, while the present invention is described herein in detailin relation to one or more embodiments, it is to be understood that thisdisclosure is illustrative and exemplary of the present invention, andis made merely for the purposes of providing a full and enablingdisclosure of the present invention. The detailed disclosure herein ofone or more embodiments is not intended, nor is to be construed, tolimit the scope of patent protection afforded the present invention,which scope is to be defined by the claims and the equivalents thereof.It is not intended that the scope of patent protection afforded thepresent invention be defined by reading into any claim a limitationfound herein that does not explicitly appear in the claim itself.

Thus, for example, any sequence(s) and/or temporal order of steps ofvarious processes or methods that are described herein are illustrativeand not restrictive. Accordingly, it should be understood that, althoughsteps of various processes or methods may be shown and described asbeing in a sequence or temporal order, the steps of any such processesor methods are not limited to being carried out in any particularsequence or order, absent an indication otherwise. Indeed, the steps insuch processes or methods generally may be carried out in variousdifferent sequences and orders while still falling within the scope ofthe present invention. Accordingly, it is intended that the scope ofpatent protection afforded the present invention is to be defined by theappended claims rather than the description set forth herein.

Additionally, it is important to note that each term used herein refersto that which the Ordinary Artisan would understand such term to meanbased on the contextual use of such term herein. To the extent that themeaning of a term used herein—as understood by the Ordinary Artisanbased on the contextual use of such term—differs in any way from anyparticular dictionary definition of such term, it is intended that themeaning of the term as understood by the Ordinary Artisan shouldprevail.

Regarding applicability of 35 U.S.C. §112, ¶6, no claim element isintended to be read in accordance with this statutory provision unlessthe explicit phrase “means for” or “step for” is actually used in suchclaim element, whereupon this statutory provision is intended to applyin the interpretation of such claim element.

Furthermore, it is important to note that, as used herein, “a” and “an”each generally denotes “at least one,” but does not exclude a pluralityunless the contextual use dictates otherwise. Thus, reference to “apicnic basket having an apple” describes “a picnic basket having atleast one apple” as well as “a picnic basket having apples.” Incontrast, reference to “a picnic basket having a single apple” describes“a picnic basket having only one apple.”

When used herein to join a list of items, “or” denotes “at least one ofthe items,” but does not exclude a plurality of items of the list. Thus,reference to “a picnic basket having cheese or crackers” describes “apicnic basket having cheese without crackers,” “a picnic basket havingcrackers without cheese,” and “a picnic basket having both cheese andcrackers.” Finally, when used herein to join a list of items, “and”denotes “all of the items of the list.” Thus, reference to “a picnicbasket having cheese and crackers” describes “a picnic basket havingcheese, wherein the picnic basket further has crackers,” as well asdescribes “a picnic basket having crackers, wherein the picnic basketfurther has cheese.”

Referring now to the drawings, in which like numerals represent likecomponents throughout the several views, one or more preferredembodiments of the present invention are next described. The followingdescription of one or more preferred embodiment(s) is merely exemplaryin nature and is in no way intended to limit the invention, itsapplication, or uses.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an epilation apparatus 10 in accordancewith one or more embodiments of the present invention. The epilationapparatus 10 generally includes a support 12 and a glass pad 14 attachedto the support 12. The support 12 may be configured to include a handle16 by which a user can grasp the support 12. In at least someembodiments, including that shown in FIG. 1, the handle 16 may be shapedto fit neatly in a user's hand, thereby enabling the user to have bettercontrol over the epilation apparatus 10 during use. It is contemplatedthat the handle 16 may have any of a variety of different shapes anddimensions.

FIGS. 2-4 are front, side and rear views, respectively, of the epilationapparatus 10 of FIG. 1. The support 12 is preferably composed of adurable material, such as a polymeric material. Additionally, it iscontemplated that the support 12 may be manufactured using an injectionmolding process. As can be seen in FIGS. 1-4, the support 12 has agenerally rounded shape with a generally flattened underside to whichthe glass pad 14 is attached. Dimensions of the support 12 can beadjusted to accommodate user comfort and the intended purpose in usingthe apparatus. In a contemplated embodiment, the support 12 has a widthmeasuring approximately 7.85 cm, a length measuring approximately 9.1cm, and a height measuring approximately 4.99 cm. The user is thusenabled to grasp the support 12 by the handle 16 and place the epilationapparatus 10, in an unobstructed manner, against human skin.

The support 12 may also include one or more surface protrusions 22arranged thereon. Surface protrusions 22 can enhance the aestheticappeal of the epilation apparatus 10 and may also enhance the user'scomfort in gripping and manipulating the epilation apparatus 10 duringuse. Still further, the support 12 may also include an aperture 18therethrough, which may facilitate storage of the epilation apparatus10, such as by suspension from a hook or hanger, when the apparatus isnot in use.

FIG. 5 is a bottom view of the epilation apparatus 10 of FIG. 1. As canbe seen in FIG. 5, the glass pad 14 is a glass component having arounded shape or footprint. In particular, the glass component is shownas having a generally oval shape or footprint; however, it iscontemplated that the glass pad 14 can have any of a variety ofdifferent shapes and dimensions, including rounded shapes as well asshapes with straight edges. In at least some embodiments, the glass pad14 is relatively thin relative to its overall size. In at least onecontemplated commercial embodiment, the glass pad 14 has a uniformthickness of approximately 0.35 cm. However, in other embodiments, thethickness of the glass pad 14 may vary.

With general reference to FIGS. 2-4, the glass pad 14 includes a topside, a bottom side, and a peripheral wall. The top side of the glasspad 14 is attached to the support 12, and the bottom side provides anexposed surface. As illustrated in FIG. 5, the exposed surface on thebottom side of the glass pad 14 is roughened or textured to have a roughfinish. In particular, the rough finish of the glass pad 14 provides theepilation apparatus 10 with an appropriate surface roughness tofacilitate hair removal, as will be explained in greater detail below. Alower edge 24 of the glass pad 14, along the bottom of the peripheralwall, is beveled or rounded, and the peripheral wall, including thelower edge 24, is preferably smooth. In a contemplated embodiment, thebeveled edge 24 of the glass pad has at least a quarter-turn radius. Byproviding the bottom of the peripheral wall of the glass pad 14 with abeveled edge 24 instead of a sharp edge, the glass pad 14 is betterequipped for placement against a user's skin for hair removal. Inparticular, with a smooth, beveled edge 24, the epilation apparatus 10can be manipulated in a rotational motion against a user's skin withoutotherwise digging into the user's skin. Additionally, as can be seen inFIG. 5, the support 12 extends beyond and overhangs the dimensions ofthe glass pad 14, thereby preventing the glass pad 14 from jutting outfrom the epilation apparatus 10.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the epilation apparatus 10 of FIG. 1,illustrating placement of the glass pad 14 in a tray 26. The support 12can be equipped with a lip or flanged edge 28 that defines a tray 26 foraccommodating the glass pad 14. It is contemplated that the flanged edge28 may extend fully around the glass pad 14, as shown in FIG. 6. Inanother embodiment, it is contemplated that the flanged edge 28 extendsonly part of the way around the glass pad 14. In either case, the tray26 defined by the flanged edge 28 provides a defined location foraligning and attaching the glass pad 14.

The glass pad 14 can be attached or adhered to the support 12 in any ofa variety of different mechanisms. In one contemplated embodiment, theglass pad 14 is adhered to the support 12 with an adhesive, such as apolymer-based epoxy adhesive. One such polymer-based epoxy adhesive isPATTEX® Power Fix, which is manufactured by Henkel International,headquartered in Düsseldorf, Germany.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of another epilation apparatus 30 inaccordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention. Theepilation apparatus 30 of FIG. 7 operates, in form and in function, in amanner that is somewhat similar to that of the epilation apparatus 10 ofFIGS. 1-6. The epilation apparatus 30 generally includes a support 32and a glass pad 34 attached to the support 32. The support 32 may beconfigured to include a handle 36 by which a user can better grasp thesupport 32. The handle 36 shown in FIG. 7 is shaped to fit neatlybetween a user's thumb and index finger, thereby enabling the user tohave control over the epilation apparatus 30 during use. However, it iscontemplated that the handle 36 may have any of a variety of differentshapes and dimensions.

The support 32 is composed of a durable material, such as a polymericmaterial. Additionally, it is contemplated that the support 32 may bemanufactured using an injection molding process. The support 32 has agenerally flat portion 33, having a generally flattened underside towhich the glass pad 34 is attached, and an extension portion 35 thatcurves away from the generally flat portion 33 and forms the handle 36.Dimensions of the support 32 can be adjusted to accommodate user comfortand the intended purpose for using the apparatus. In a contemplatedembodiment, the support 32 has a thickness of approximately 2 mm and awidth within the range of approximately 22 mm and approximately 34 mm.Furthermore, in a contemplated embodiment, the handle 36 extendsapproximately 26 mm above a plane defined by the generally flat portion33 of the support 32. In use, the user is thus enabled to grasp thesupport 32 by the handle 36 and place the epilation apparatus 30, in anunobstructed manner, against human skin.

FIG. 8 is a side view of the epilation apparatus 30 of FIG. 7,illustrating a method of use. As shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the support 32may also include a rubberized grip 37 having one or more surfaceprotrusions 42 arranged thereon. Surface protrusions 42 can enhance theaesthetic appeal of the epilation apparatus 30 and may also enhance theuser's comfort in gripping and manipulating the epilation apparatus 30during use. As can be seen in FIG. 8, the rubberized grip 37 ispositioned at a base of the extension portion 35 where a user may bemost likely to place his or her index finger when gripping the epilationapparatus 30 during use.

The glass pad 34 is a glass component having a rounded shape orfootprint. It is contemplated that the glass pad 34 can have any of avariety of different shapes and dimensions, including rounded shapes aswell as shapes with straight edges. In at least some embodiments, theglass pad 34 is relatively thin relative to its overall size. In atleast one contemplated embodiment, the glass pad 34 has a uniformthickness of approximately 2.9 mm. However, in other embodiments, thethickness of the glass pad 34 may vary.

The glass pad 34 includes a top side, a bottom side, and a peripheralwall. The top side of the glass pad 34 is attached to the support 32,and the bottom side provides an exposed surface. The exposed surface ofthe glass pad 34 is roughened or textured to have a rough finish. Therough finish of the glass pad 34 provides the epilation apparatus 30with an appropriate surface roughness to facilitate hair removal, aswill be explained in greater detail below. A lower edge 44 of the glasspad 34, along the bottom of the peripheral wall, is beveled or rounded,and the peripheral wall, including the lower edge 44, is preferablysmooth. In a contemplated embodiment, the beveled edge 44 of the glasspad 34 has at least a quarter-turn radius. By providing the bottom ofthe peripheral wall of the glass pad 34 with a beveled edge 44 insteadof a sharp edge, the glass pad 34 is better equipped for placementagainst a user's skin for hair removal. In particular, with a smooth,beveled edge 44, the epilation apparatus 30 can be manipulated in arotational motion against a user's skin without otherwise digging intothe user's skin. Additionally, the support 32 extends beyond andoverhangs the dimensions of the glass pad 34, thereby preventing theglass pad 34 from jutting out from the epilation apparatus 30.

The glass pad 34 can be attached or adhered to the support 32 in any ofa variety of different mechanisms. In one contemplated embodiment, theglass pad 34 is adhered to the support 32 with an adhesive, such as apolymer-based epoxy adhesive. One such polymer-based epoxy adhesive isPATTEX® Power Fix, which is manufactured by Henkel International,headquartered in Düsseldorf, Germany.

In a method of using the epilation apparatus 10,30, a user grasps theepilation apparatus 10,30 by the handle 16,36 and positions theepilation apparatus 10,30 against his or her skin in an area having hairthat the user desires to remove. The handle 16 of the epilationapparatus 10 of FIGS. 1-6 can be held generally in the palm of theuser's hand, or at the base of the user's fingers, with his or herfingers generally wrapped around the handle to grip the support 12. Thehandle 36 of the epilation apparatus 30 of FIGS. 7 and 8 can be grippedbetween the user's thumb and index finger, as shown in FIG. 8. Theuser's index finger can rest on the rubberized grip 37 to aid the user'sability to firmly grasp the epilation apparatus 30.

When the epilation apparatus 10,30 is in proper position, the exposed,roughened surface of the glass pad 14,34 is placed against the user'sskin directly on an area with hair to be removed. Then, the usermanually manipulates the epilation apparatus along the skin. Inparticular, in at least one preferred method of use, the user manuallymanipulates the epilation apparatus in a rotational motion along theskin. Notably, the user is not necessarily required to press theepilation apparatus 10,30 against the skin with much force, as a softpressure is often sufficient to accomplish hair removal. Rotationalmotion is first applied in a first direction (clockwise orcounter-clockwise), and then followed by rotational motion in theopposite direction. In a contemplated method of use, a plurality ofrotations in a first direction is followed by a plurality of rotationsin the opposite direction. If hair removal is incomplete followingrotation of the epilation apparatus 10,30 in both directions, therotational steps can be repeated. As the epilation apparatus 10,30 isrubbed gently against the user's skin, the exposed, roughened surface ofthe glass pad 14,34 twists the body hair in the treated area and pullsthe hair away from the skin. The surface roughness of the glass pad14,34 is sufficiently rough to remove the user's body hair, but not sostrong as to damage or injure the user during use of the epilationapparatus 10,30. In addition to the removal of body hair, the epilationapparatus 10,30 is effective at scrubbing the user's skin so as to helpremove dead skin cells. Though the method of use described hereincontemplates rotational movement of the epilation apparatus 10,30, it isfurther contemplated that use by other means, such as by straight linemovements back and forth, can also be effective in hair removal.

The epilation apparatus 10,30 is effective at removing body hair fromboth men and women. Furthermore, it is contemplated that the epilationapparatus 10,30 is effective to remove longer body hair as well asshorter body hair, such as stubbles. Additionally, as a manuallyoperated device, the epilation apparatus 10,30 can be used with relativeease in a variety of settings, as no outside power source is requiredfor operation. The glass pad 14,34 provides a roughened, durable surfacefor the removal of body hair and is capable of maintaining itseffectiveness even after repeated use.

The glass pad 14,34 of the epilation apparatus 10,30 is prepared in amanner so as to equip the bottom surface of the glass pad 14,34 with anappropriate surface roughness for hair removal from human skin.Roughness testing was conducted on three different samples of glass pads14,34, which were made in accordance with the processes describedherein, to ascertain roughness parameter values of the exposed,roughened surface of the glass pads 14,34 in accordance with differentindustry standards.

The glass pad 14,34 for use with the epilation apparatus 10,30 can beconstructed by various processes and by using a variety of different rawmaterials. One such process is detailed below.

In a contemplated embodiment, the raw glass material used in generatingthe glass pad 14,34 is composed of approximately 72% silica (also knownas silicon dioxide, having a chemical formula of SiO₂), approximately15% soda (also known as sodium carbonate, having a chemical formula ofNa₂CO₃), approximately 10% limestone (also known as calcium carbonate,having a chemical formula of CaCO₃), and approximately 2-3%miscellaneous additives to impart the glass material with particulardesired qualities. Additives can be included to accomplish a variety ofdifferent purposes. For example, a coloring additive may be added to themixture in order to impart the raw glass material with a particulardesired color property. Additives to enhance hardness are alsocontemplated. An appropriate raw glass material capable of use with theepilation apparatus 10,30 of the present invention is a CE-certified 3mm Planibel Clear™ glass material, which is available from AGC GlassEurope, headquartered in Brussels, Belgium.

The raw glass material is formed by adding the ingredients to acast-iron crucible and stir mixing. The ingredients are mixed at a hightemperature so that the ingredients form a molten glass, which isallowed to cool in the form of float glass pieces having rectangulardimensions of approximately 60 cm by approximately 80 cm. Once cooled, asurface of the float glass pieces is roughened by an etching process,which forms the surface roughness of the exposed surface of the glasspad 14,34. It is contemplated that the float glass pieces may be etchedor roughened by a variety of different mechanisms, including chemicaletching, machine etching, and etching by mechanical abrasion, such as byblasting.

One contemplated chemical etching process that can be used in generatingthe glass pad 14,34 for use in the epilation apparatus 10,30 is detailedbelow. In this contemplated chemical etching process, the float glasspieces are etched by dipping the pieces into an acid mixture. One suchacid mixture is a mixture of sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄) and hydrofluoric acid(HF). The acid treatment roughens the surface of the treated glasspieces by creating cuts in the surface of the glass pieces. The depth ofthe cuts governs the roughness parameters of the treated glass pieces.

Etched glass pieces can then be cut into the desired shape for use asthe glass pad 14,34 of the epilation apparatus 10,30. As discussedabove, the etched glass pieces can be cut to have any desired shape. Ina contemplated embodiment, the etched glass pieces are cut into smallerpieces having a rounded shape, such as an oval shape. After the etchedglass pieces are cut, edges of the cut pieces are beveled or rounded sothat they are smooth and less likely to injure users' skin when theepilation apparatus 10,30 is used. Once the etched glass pieces are cutand beveled at the edges, the glass pieces can be tempered by reheatingthe glass in order to remove molecular instability. In so doing, theresultant glass pads 14,34 are toughened and less likely to shatter orwear down, thereby enhancing durability.

Chemical etching, cutting, and temperation for use in preparing theglass pad 14,34, as discussed herein, can be conducted by Glavia s.r.o.,which is headquartered in Prague, Czech Republic.

After temperation, the finished glass pads 14,34 are ready forattachment to the support 12,32 to form the epilation apparatus 10,30.

Glass pad samples made in accordance with the methodology describedherein, including treatment by a chemical etching process, were testedto determine roughness parameters of the etched surfaces. In particular,a contact profilometer was used to measure the roughened surface of theglass pad samples in order to quantify the roughness parameter. Thecontact profilometer used in testing roughness was a SURFTEST® SJ-210Series profilometer, manufactured by the Mitutoyo America Corporation,headquartered in Aurora, Ill. The contact profilometer measures surfaceroughness by measuring the surface's profile.

Roughness can be measured using different standard roughness parameters,each of which is determined using a different method of calculation.Different roughness parameters are considered standard in differentparts of the world. For example, the R_(a) roughness parameter istreated as a standard measurement of roughness in much of North America,while the R_(z) roughness parameter is treated as a standard measurementof roughness predominantly in European countries.

During testing, roughness parameter values were determined using thefollowing standard roughness parameters: R_(a), R_(q), and R_(z). Foreach of three glass pad samples, the R_(a), R_(q), and R_(z) roughnessparameter values were determined at four evaluation lengths along theglass pad sample. Each evaluation length for each of the three samplesmeasured 4 mm in length. Thus, for each of the four evaluation lengthson each of the three glass pad samples, the contact profilometermeasured the glass pad sample's surface profile for that particular 4 mmevaluation length and determined a roughness parameter value for each ofR_(a), R_(q), and R_(z).

In determining roughness parameter values, the contact profilometerconducts measurements of profile deviations from a hypothetical meanline. Profile deviations are portions of the profile that project abovethe mean line, which take the form of mountains, and portions of theprofile that project below the mean line, which take the form ofvalleys. Roughness parameter values for each of R_(a), R_(q), and R_(z)were calculated as follows:

-   -   R_(a) is the arithmetic mean of the absolute values of the        profile deviations from the mean line. R_(a) is defined over the        entire 4 mm evaluation length.    -   R_(q) is the square root of the arithmetic mean of the squares        of the profile deviations from the mean line. R_(q) is also        defined over the entire 4 mm evaluation length.    -   For determining R_(z), the evaluation length of 4 mm is divided        into five equal segments. For each of the five segments, a sum        of the distance from the mean line to the highest point and the        distance from the mean line to the lowest point is determined.        R_(z) is the average of the sums from each of the five segments        of the 4 mm evaluation length.

FIGS. 9A-9D are graphs illustrating the roughness testing results of afirst glass pad sample. In FIGS. 9A-9D, a new glass pad sample wastested for four different 4 mm evaluation lengths using theprofilometer. The new glass pad sample of FIGS. 9A-9D was made inaccordance with the processes described herein.

FIG. 9A is a graphic illustration of the surface profile of the firstglass pad sample over the first evaluation length. For the firstevaluation length, the first glass pad sample was measured withroughness parameter values as set forth in Table 1 below.

TABLE 1 R_(a) 12.147 μm R_(q) 14.677 μm R_(z) 62.261 μm

FIG. 9B is a graphic illustration of the surface profile of the firstglass pad sample over the second evaluation length. For the secondevaluation length, the first glass pad sample was measured withroughness parameter values as set forth in Table 2 below.

TABLE 2 R_(a) 13.231 μm R_(q) 16.007 μm R_(z) 64.641 μm

FIG. 9C is a graphic illustration of the surface profile of the firstglass pad sample over the third evaluation length. For the thirdevaluation length, the first glass pad sample was measured withroughness parameter values as set forth in Table 3 below.

TABLE 3 R_(a) 11.309 μm R_(q) 13.875 μm R_(z) 62.186 μm

FIG. 9D is a graphic illustration of the surface profile of the firstglass pad sample over the fourth evaluation length. For the fourthevaluation length, the first glass pad sample was measured withroughness parameter values as set forth in Table 4 below.

TABLE 4 R_(a) 11.393 μm R_(q) 14.078 μm R_(z) 62.953 μm

FIGS. 10A-10D are graphs illustrating the roughness testing results of asecond glass pad sample. In FIGS. 10A-10D, a used glass pad sample wastested for four different 4 mm evaluation lengths using theprofilometer. The used glass pad sample of FIGS. 10A-10D was made inaccordance with the processes described herein and was tested toascertain and confirm its effectiveness in removing body hair from humanskin.

FIG. 10A is a graphic illustration of the surface profile of the secondglass pad sample over the first evaluation length. For the firstevaluation length, the second glass pad sample was measured withroughness parameter values as set forth in Table 5 below.

TABLE 5 R_(a) 10.768 μm R_(q) 12.736 μm R_(z) 52.768 μm

FIG. 10B is a graphic illustration of the surface profile of the secondglass pad sample over the second evaluation length. For the secondevaluation length, the second glass pad sample was measured withroughness parameter values as set forth in Table 6 below.

TABLE 6 R_(a) 10.180 μm R_(q) 12.144 μm R_(z) 50.576 μm

FIG. 10C is a graphic illustration of the surface profile of the secondglass pad sample over the third evaluation length. For the thirdevaluation length, the second glass pad sample was measured withroughness parameter values as set forth in Table 7 below.

TABLE 7 R_(a) 10.448 μm R_(q) 12.708 μm R_(z) 55.104 μm

FIG. 10D is a graphic illustration of the surface profile of the secondglass pad sample over the fourth evaluation length. For the fourthevaluation length, the second glass pad sample was measured withroughness parameter values as set forth in Table 8 below.

TABLE 8 R_(a)  9.746 μm R_(q) 11.944 μm R_(z) 50.947 μm

FIGS. 11A-11D are graphs illustrating the roughness testing results of athird glass pad sample. In FIGS. 11A-11D, another used glass pad samplewas tested for four different 4 mm evaluation lengths using theprofilometer. The used glass pad sample of FIGS. 11A-11D was made inaccordance with the processes described herein and was tested toascertain and confirm its effectiveness in removing body hair from humanskin.

FIG. 11A is a graphic illustration of the surface profile of the thirdglass pad sample over the first evaluation length. For the firstevaluation length, the third glass pad sample was measured withroughness parameter values as set forth in Table 9 below.

TABLE 9 R_(a) 8.084 μm R_(q) 9.923 μm R_(z) 46.387 μm 

FIG. 11B is a graphic illustration of the surface profile of the thirdglass pad sample over the second evaluation length. For the secondevaluation length, the third glass pad sample was measured withroughness parameter values as set forth in Table 10 below.

TABLE 10 R_(a) 7.850 μm R_(q) 9.740 μm R_(z) 45.134 μm 

FIG. 11C is a graphic illustration of the surface profile of the thirdglass pad sample over the third evaluation length. For the thirdevaluation length, the third glass pad sample was measured withroughness parameter values as set forth in Table 11 below.

TABLE 11 R_(a)  9.497 μm R_(q) 11.581 μm R_(z) 50.631 μm

FIG. 11D is a graphic illustration of the surface profile of the thirdglass pad sample over the fourth evaluation length. For the fourthevaluation length, the third glass pad sample was measured withroughness parameter values as set forth in Table 12 below.

TABLE 12 R_(a)  9.337 μm R_(q) 11.587 μm R_(z) 50.397 μm

The profilometer measuring data suggests a range of roughness parametervalues for each of R_(a), R_(q), and R_(z) that correspond to anappropriate level of surface roughness for the glass pad 14,34 of theepilation apparatus 10,30. Used glass pad samples, measured inconnection with FIGS. 10A-10D and FIGS. 11A-11D, had been separatelytested to confirm their effectiveness in removal of body hair from humanskin. An appropriate range of R_(a) roughness parameter values isapproximately 6 μm to approximately 16 μm. An appropriate range of R_(q)roughness parameter values is approximately 6 μm to approximately 18 μm.An appropriate range of R_(z) roughness parameter values isapproximately 40 μm to approximately 76 μm.

Based on the foregoing information, it will be readily understood bythose persons skilled in the art that the present invention issusceptible of broad utility and application. Many embodiments andadaptations of the present invention other than those specificallydescribed herein, as well as many variations, modifications, andequivalent arrangements, will be apparent from or reasonably suggestedby the present invention and the foregoing descriptions thereof, withoutdeparting from the substance or scope of the present invention.

Accordingly, while the present invention has been described herein indetail in relation to one or more preferred embodiments, it is to beunderstood that this disclosure is only illustrative and exemplary ofthe present invention and is made merely for the purpose of providing afull and enabling disclosure of the invention. The foregoing disclosureis not intended to be construed to limit the present invention orotherwise exclude any such other embodiments, adaptations, variations,modifications or equivalent arrangements; the present invention beinglimited only by the claims appended hereto and the equivalents thereof.

1. An epilation apparatus comprising: a support; a glass pad adhered tothe support, the glass pad having an exposed roughened surface that,when placed against human skin and manually manipulated in a rotationalmotion, is adapted to remove hair from the human skin.
 2. The epilationapparatus of claim 1, wherein the glass pad has an exposed etchedsurface.
 3. The epilation apparatus of claim 2, wherein the etchedsurface includes a roughness parameter value (R_(a)) within the range ofapproximately 6 micrometers and approximately 16 micrometers.
 4. Theepilation apparatus of claim 2, wherein the etched surface includes aroughness parameter value (R_(q)) within the range of approximately 6micrometers and approximately 18 micrometers.
 5. The epilation apparatusof claim 2, wherein the etched surface includes a roughness parametervalue (R_(z)) within the range of approximately 40 micrometers andapproximately 76 micrometers.
 6. The epilation apparatus of claim 2,wherein the etched surface includes a roughness parameter value (R_(a))within the range of approximately 6 micrometers and approximately 16micrometers, and wherein the etched surface includes a roughnessparameter value (R_(q)) within the range of approximately 6 micrometersand approximately 18 micrometers.
 7. The epilation apparatus of claim 2,wherein the etched surface includes a roughness parameter value (R_(q))within the range of approximately 6 micrometers and approximately 18micrometers, and wherein the etched surface includes a roughnessparameter value (R_(z)) within the range of approximately 40 micrometersand approximately 76 micrometers.
 8. The epilation apparatus of claim 2,wherein the etched surface includes a roughness parameter value (R_(a))within the range of approximately 6 micrometers and approximately 16micrometers, and wherein the etched surface includes a roughnessparameter value (R_(z)) within the range of approximately 40 micrometersand approximately 76 micrometers.
 9. The epilation apparatus of claim 2,wherein the etched surface includes a roughness parameter value (R_(a))within the range of approximately 6 micrometers and approximately 16micrometers, wherein the etched surface includes a roughness parametervalue (R_(q)) within the range of approximately 6 micrometers andapproximately 18 micrometers, and wherein the etched surface includes aroughness parameter value (R_(z)) within the range of approximately 40micrometers and approximately 76 micrometers.
 10. The epilationapparatus of claim 2, wherein the glass pad is etched using a chemicaletching process.
 11. The epilation apparatus of claim 1, wherein theglass pad includes a rounded shape.
 12. The epilation apparatus of claim1, wherein the glass pad includes a beveled edge.
 13. The epilationapparatus of claim 1, wherein the glass pad has a thickness of about0.35 cm.
 14. The epilation apparatus of claim 1, wherein the glass padhas a thickness of about 2.9 mm.
 15. The epilation apparatus of claim 1,wherein the glass pad is comprised of a tempered glass.
 16. Theepilation apparatus of claim 1, wherein the support includes a handle.17. The epilation apparatus of claim 1, wherein the support includes afinger grip.
 18. The epilation apparatus of claim 1, wherein the glasspad is adhered to the support with a polymer-based epoxy.
 19. Theepilation apparatus of claim 1, wherein the support includes a tray foraccommodating the glass pad.
 20. A method of using an epilationapparatus, the method comprising: providing a support having a glass padadhered thereto, the glass pad having an exposed roughened surface;configuring the support such that the roughened surface of the glass padis placed against human skin that has hair; and manually manipulatingthe support in a rotational motion such the glass pad removes the hairfrom the human skin. 21.-39. (canceled)